Princess Charlene launches an exclusive horse race for charity

By Julie Delahaye

February 28, 2017

Monaco's Princess Charlene launched an exciting new charity event on Sunday - an exclusive horse race held at the stunning Hippodrome Côte D'Azur. The Prix Princesse Charlène de Monaco Charity Mile race was created to help raise money for a series of local charities supported by the royal mother-of-two, with each of the 18 horses representing a different organization chosen by Princess Charlene, across a range of causes including animal welfare, children and people in need.

"There was a wonderful atmosphere at the track and it was exciting to watch the race down at the rail," Prince Albert of Monaco's wife, 39, told HELLO!. "It is great to see so many local charities who work tirelessly to support animal welfare, children and people in need benefitting from the Charity Mile."

Looking as stylish as ever, Charlene gave the event a sartorial nod in Akris' Ilka Jockey Jacquard Short Jacket, which she paired with a silk crêpe jumpsuit, also from the Swiss fashion house. She complemented her chic ensemble with glamorous make-up, opting for winged eyeliner and a slick of pink lipstick.

Charlene first came up with the idea with her father Michael Kenneth Wittstock, inspired by the concept of the Charity Mile from South Africa, where she is from. The former Olympic swimmer was keen to combine her passion for sport and the values of sport with her foundation and other charitable ventures. It marks the first time a race of this nature has been held in France, and was welcomed by the French Racing community: the Princess was joined by Mr Édouard de Rothschild, President of the French Racing Association, France-Galop for the exciting launch.

The event was to raise money for local charities supporting animal welfare, children and people in need.

In total, $70,000 (€50,000) was distributed to the charities. $14,000 (€10,000) was awarded to the winner – Miracle des Aigles representing Action Innocence, a local charity promoting internet safety among young people – while $8440 (€6,000) was awarded to second place, and $5625 (€4,000) to the third. Those who didn't take home one of the top three spots didn't go back empty handed: every charity received $2800 (€2,000.) Before the race, guests were invited to a glitzy lunch hosted by the President of the track, Mr Forcioli-Conti.

All photos courtesy of Kasia Wandycz/Palais Princier.

HELLO! Canada magazine is available for your tablet and smartphone. Get HELLO! Canada, PEOPLE, Vanity Fair and over 100 more of the world’s best magazines for one low monthly price at Texture by Next Issue. CLICK HERE to sign up for a free trial.